Tongue Piercing Guide: Everything You Need to Know

The tongue piercing is one of the fastest-healing piercings and, when done properly, one of the most comfortable to live with daily. At Multnomah Body Piercing in Gresham, Oregon, tongue piercings are a popular request — here is everything you need to know.

What Is a Tongue Piercing?

A standard tongue piercing goes vertically through the center of the tongue, usually about 3/4 inch from the tip. Your piercer will evaluate your anatomy (vein placement, tongue length, frenulum) to determine the optimal and safest placement.

Pain Level

• Pain rating: 3-5 out of 10
• Duration: About 1-2 seconds
• Sensation: A quick pressure and pinch; many describe it as less painful than expected
• After: Significant swelling for 3-5 days; talking and eating are temporarily affected

Healing Timeline

Tongue piercings are among the fastest-healing piercings thanks to the tongue's excellent blood supply:

• Days 1-3: Most swelling occurs. Speech may be slightly affected. Stick to cold, soft foods.
• Days 4-7: Swelling decreases significantly. Eating becomes easier.
• Weeks 2-4: Swelling mostly gone. Come back for a complimentary downsize at 2 weeks.
• Months 2-4: Full healing and maturation. Jewelry can be changed after piercer confirmation.

Aftercare for Tongue Piercings

1. Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal and drink (except water) for the first 2 weeks
2. Suck on ice chips or drink cold water to reduce swelling
3. Avoid hot, spicy, acidic, and crunchy foods for the first week
4. Do not play with the jewelry — clicking it against your teeth can cause dental damage
5. Avoid smoking and alcohol during the initial healing period
6. Do not remove the jewelry until healed — tongue piercings can close within hours

What to Eat After a Tongue Piercing

Week 1 (Soft, Cool Foods)

• Smoothies and protein shakes
• Yogurt and applesauce
• Mashed potatoes
• Ice cream and popsicles
• Soup (room temperature or cool)
• Scrambled eggs

Week 2+ (Gradually Reintroduce)

Slowly add softer solid foods as comfort allows. Most people return to a normal diet within 2 weeks.

Tongue Piercing and Dental Health

One important consideration: long-term tongue jewelry can potentially affect dental health if you develop a habit of clicking or biting the barbell. To minimize risk:

• Downsize to a shorter barbell once healed (we include this at no cost)
• Consider a flat-disc end instead of a ball on the bottom
• Be conscious of not playing with the jewelry against your teeth